2026 Otsuki Travel Guide: must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transport & travel experiences (updated in August)

♥️Otsuki City♥️ is the city where we need to change trains to go to Kawaguchiko. This city is another one that I love. It is filled with a homestay atmosphere, friendly people, and a classic vibe. The city mainly engages in agriculture, primarily rice farming. We had some time, so we decided to explore the city a bit. A kind old lady tried to communicate with us, but we couldn't understand each other, so we used a translation app. She was very sweet and explained a lot about the city. If you're heading to Kawaguchiko and want to explore this city for a while, feel free to do so. It's very peaceful. 📍Otsuki City, Japan

On November 1st, I took the Kaishi Express from Shinjuku for about an hour and got off at Otsuki Station in Otsuki City, Yamanashi Prefecture. The view from the express train was a sea of ​​autumn leaves! The spectacular views were enough to blow away any sleepiness. In front of the station, there were so many autumn leaves 🍁 that it made me want to say I'd found a little bit of autumn. The log cabin-style station building made of logs was also stylish. #autumnleaves

A relaxing spot recommended for sightseeing around Mt. Fuji. It is not well known, but it is definitely worth a visit! The bridge over the valley is beautiful and picturesque from any angle. There is a promenade that leads down to the edge of the stream. I would like to visit again in the autumn foliage season. #Yamanashi Prefecture #Saruhashi #Beautiful Valley #Mt. Fuji #Eastern Japan #trip2022

This 634m high mountain is just a stone's throw from JR Chuo Main Line Otsuki Station. It's the same height as the Skytree. Originally, Iwadono Castle was located here, so you can also see the historical site. Also, if you go on a trekking course from Mt. Iwadono, you can see the huge rock wall... Chigo Otoshi. It's a thrilling place where you can see Mt. Fuji when the weather is good. #Mountaineering #Yamanashi #Mt. Iwadono #Otsuki Town

Dangosaka SA is famous on the Chuo Expressway, but personally I think I use Hatsukari PA more often. It's a small SA, but it has all the necessary facilities. There's a congested area ahead on the northbound lane, so I recommend taking a break here. The rice balls in the food court are delicious, so be sure to try them. #Yamanashi #HatsukariPA

🌊 The clearest sea in Japan might not be in Okinawa 📍 Kashiwajima, Otsuki-cho, Hata-gun, Kochi Prefecture, Japan On a clear day, the water visibility reaches 40 meters, making the fishing boats in the harbor look like they are floating in mid-air. 👍 Recommendation: Visit in the morning after a few consecutive sunny days. ❓️ Reason: Kashiwajima is famous for its crystal-clear water; the sea looks dull in bad weather. 💴 Cost: Free entry to the island, snorkeling gear rental is around 2,000 JPY. 🚃 Public Transit: Kochi Station → JR Tosa Kuroshio Railway → Sukumo Station → Taxi to Kashiwajima ⏰ Approx. 2 hours 40 minutes 💴 Approx. 7,000 JPY ⚠️ Note: Bus services around Kashiwajima are very infrequent, so relying solely on public transit isn't recommended. 4 recommended things to do in [Kashiwajima]: 1️⃣📸 Take photos at Kashiwajima Fishing Port The water is incredibly clear on sunny days, allowing you to capture the "floating boat" effect. 2️⃣🤿 Snorkel at Ushiromahama Beach Right by the shore, you can spot: 🐠 Tropical fish 🪸 Coral reefs If you're lucky, you might even encounter sea turtles. 3️⃣🚗 Drive across Kashiwajima Bridge Enjoy crystal-clear ocean views on both sides of the bridge. 4️⃣🍣 Try Kochi's specialty: "Katsuo no Tataki" A signature dish of Kochi: Lightly seared bonito, served with garlic slices and soy sauce. If you want to see the beautiful sea in Japan but want to avoid the crowds in Okinawa, be sure to save this post!

Good day! I'd like to share a bit of my trip through Japan. We were there in May 2026. I'll tell you about the route: Kyoto-Mishima-Kawaguchiko-Tokyo. Mount Fuji was our third stop, after Osaka and Kyoto. So we (my wife and I) were quite prepared for the journey. The route starts in Kyoto (Kyoto Station), then we took the Shinkansen to Mishima (we bought tickets in advance on Trip.com). This seemed easier than going through Tokyo. There, we bought tickets for a bus that goes directly to Kawaguchiko Station. An hour's journey and you're there. Bus tickets can be purchased in advance on the sekitori website or here on Trip.com. (They're half the price at the ticket office). From Kawaguchiko, we traveled to Otsuki (something like a commuter train), paying with an Icoca card. From Otsuka, we pre-booked a train to Tokyo (booked through trip), but there were seats available, so we could buy them on site. Now I'll tell you a little about Kawaguchiko itself. Many of the hotels we stayed at are within walking distance from the station (15-20 minutes). A few tips: rent a bike; it costs 3,000-3,500 yen. Ride around the lake and just enjoy the views. Further, I'll attach photos and Google Maps coordinates of where they were taken. 1. View of Fuji from the lake. 35.513 138.773 2. View of the 7-11 store with Fuji in the background. 35,490 138,752 3. Fuji in a secluded spot (small street, no people there at all) 35,494 138,759 4. Fuji and a pagoda 35,501 138,801 And a few more photos. #fuji #kawaguchiko #japan

Tokyo and Mount Fuji have always been must-visit destinations in Japan. This itinerary revolves around the simple joy of "admiring Mount Fuji from afar." The best part? You can see Mount Fuji right after stepping off the train, without the hassle of trekking. Just grab your suitcase and enjoy a chill trip! The area not only boasts stunning scenery but also features modern shopping malls where you can easily pick up souvenirs, sip coffee, and relax while soaking in the views—perfect for your Instagram feed! 🗺️ Highlights of the Itinerary · Extremely convenient transportation, even beginners can handle it 🚄 · Snowy Mount Fuji scenery, instant postcard-worthy views with blue skies and white snow · Nearby shopping malls for endless shopping and café options, plus outdoor cultural experiences · Local eateries with high value-for-money, unlocking both scenic views and delicious food 🗒️ Detailed Itinerary 1️⃣ Arriving at the Mount Fuji Area: It’s recommended to take the JR Chuo Line from Tokyo to Otsuki Station, then transfer to the Fujikyu Railway (about 2 hours). One of the most popular viewing stations is "Kawaguchiko Station." As soon as you get off the train, you’ll be greeted by the majestic Mount Fuji. In winter, the snow-covered mountain is particularly spectacular! The scenery along the way is stunning, especially on sunny days, so be sure to check the weather in advance. 2️⃣ Kawaguchiko Station and Nearby Landmarks: 📍 Mount Fuji Station (Address: 5-2-1 Shin Nishihara, Fujiyoshida City, Yamanashi Prefecture) Highlights: Mount Fuji is visible right outside the station, incredibly breathtaking, with a free observation deck nearby 📍 Fujisan View Express Features: A train designed for photo ops, with large glass windows for easy photography and filming 📍 Shopping Center near Mount Fuji Modern design featuring Japanese local brands, miscellaneous goods, souvenir shops, and spacious restaurants serving traditional Yamanashi dishes (like Yoshida Udon and grape-based sweets). The scenic rooftop seating is incredibly relaxing! 🗻 Mount Fuji Snowy Scenery Photo Spots Winter is the best time to visit. Take your time to walk around and capture the snowy mountain from different angles—it’s just like a postcard. Popular photo spots include the mall’s outdoor terrace and the shores of Lake Kawaguchi. 🍽️ Restaurant Recommendations 1. Mont Crevo Café (Located on the mall’s second floor) 2. Yoshida Udon (Near the station, known for its uniquely chewy udon) Take a break, enjoy an afternoon tea by the window, admire the glacier and snowy views, and chat with friends—it’s truly delightful. 🎁 Small Tips: · The Mount Fuji area is surprisingly windy and dry in winter, so bring a warm coat and skincare products. · Visit in the morning for a better chance of seeing a clear, cloudless Mount Fuji! · The mall offers many exclusive souvenirs (Hello Kitty x Mount Fuji, Mount Fuji-shaped snacks), perfect for keepsakes. 🌟 Personal Reflection As a child, I often saw Mount Fuji in textbooks, comics, and travel magazines. Seeing it with my own eyes this time feels like a dream come true—it’s still vividly imprinted in my mind! The atmosphere is serene, with few people around, allowing you to slowly appreciate the snowy mountain against the clear sky. It’s incredibly healing. Grab some snacks, sit outdoors, and enjoy the view—it’s one of life’s greatest pleasures. 🚉 Transportation Guide From Tokyo: · Take the JR Chuo Line from Shinjuku Station to Otsuki Station, then transfer to the Fujikyu Railway, ending at Kawaguchiko Station (about 2 hours total) · Alternatively, consider taking a direct express bus to Kawaguchiko Station for convenience 🍱 Food Recommendations Don’t miss Yoshida Udon and local grape ice cream. Some restaurants in the mall even offer Mount Fuji-themed specialty drinks!

There are many sightseeing trains to Mt. Fuji, but I recommend this beautiful dessert train. Enjoying Japanese sweets while gazing at Mt. Fuji is a truly delightful experience!

After a full day of adventure around Mt. Fuji, slowing down in the peaceful surroundings of Otsuki Station feels just right. As evening settles in, the town reveals its gentle charm—quiet streets, quaint local shops, and cozy eateries glowing softly under warm lights. It’s the perfect place to unwind while waiting for the next train back to Tokyo. The calm atmosphere, friendly locals, and unhurried pace offer a refreshing contrast to the city rush. A simple, comforting moment that captures the beauty of Japan’s tranquil small towns. #japantrip

#JapanTravelGuide Accessing Mount Fuji via JR East's Chuo Main Line and the local private Fujikyu Line offers spectacular views of the seasons and an extraordinary experience. The "Azusa" train departs Shinjuku, transfers at Kofu, and then heads to the Fujikyu Line. From the train window, you'll see the fresh greenery of spring, the autumn leaves of autumn, and the snow-capped Mount Fuji in winter. The direct lift from Kawaguchiko Station to the fifth station is particularly popular. With comfortable seats and large windows, you can fully enjoy the view of Mount Fuji. Fujikyu Line carriages feature a Mount Fuji design, creating a harmonious blend of cultural landscapes and nature, including famous hot springs along the line and Kitaguchi Hongu Fuji Sengen Shrine, a testament to Mount Fuji worship.

✍️Caption Kaino Saruhashi Bridge, located in Otsuki City, Yamanashi Prefecture, is one of Japan's Three Unusual Bridges, along with Kintaikyo Bridge and Aimoto Bridge. The approximately 30-meter-long bridge has no piers and is built using the "hanegi shoring" method, which involves stacking multiple wooden beams extending from both banks. Not only is the bridge's unique structural beauty spanning the valley a must-see, but the surrounding valley views are also a must-see. It offers beautiful views throughout the seasons: cherry blossoms in spring, deep green in summer, autumn leaves in fall, and snow in winter. This historic bridge once supported travelers along the Koshu Kaido Highway, and remains a popular tourist spot designated as a National Place of Scenic Beauty. This famous spot offers both photogenic views and traditional wooden construction techniques. ⸻ ℹ️Basic Information 📍Name: Kai no Saruhashi (Saruhashi Bridge) 📮Address: Saruhashi, Saruhashi-cho, Otsuki City, Yamanashi Prefecture 🚉Access: Approximately 15 minutes on foot from Saruhashi Station on the JR Chuo Main Line 🕒Opening Hours: Free (passage permitted) 💴Admission: Free 🏞️Highlights: Timber-framed bridge / Four Seasons of the Valley / Designated a National Place of Scenic Beauty ⸻ 🏷️Hashtags #KainoSaruhashi #Japan'sThreeStrangeBridges #YamanashiTourism #OtsukiCity #BeautifulValley #HistoricalBuildings #TripComRecommendations #TripMoments #SaruhashiGorge #AutumnFoliageSpots #LetsTravelWithPochikatsu

#summervacay The Fujisan View Express is a scenic limited express train operated by the Fujikyu Railway, offering a stylish and comfortable journey with panoramic views of Mount Fuji. Route: Otsuki Station → Kawaguchiko Station (via Tsuru University-mae, Shimoyoshida, Fujisan, and Fuji-Q Highland stations) Distance: Approximately 26.6 km (16.5 miles) Travel Time: Around 45 minutes Frequency: Operates daily; two round trips on weekdays and three on weekends and holidays #couplestrip #beachlife #naturalwonders #thingstodo #familytravel

I went to a Western restaurant called Mustachio in Otsuki City, Yamanashi Prefecture! This place serves delicious Western food at affordable prices. The tongue stew is especially delicious, with large, tender pieces of tongue, and it's available for a very reasonable lunch price. I highly recommend it!! They also have a wide variety of pasta, and their hamburgers are delicious. Why not give it a try? #0YenTravel 📍Address: Fujimoto Apartment, 1-13-6 Otachi, Otsuki City, Yamanashi Prefecture, 401-0012

Food store FUJISAN SHOKUPAN Kawaguchiko Mount Fuji Pudding/Toast, there are all kinds of peripheral products here, and there are only two small parking spaces at the door. Here is the Mt. Fuji-colored toast. Here is the Mt. Fuji colored pudding Just buy them all, it’s a choice you won’t regret, and it satisfies you visually first. Food store FUJISAN SHOKUPAN 〒401-0301 3462-11 Funazu, Fujikawaguchiko-cho, Minamituri-gun, Yamanashi Prefecture Opening hours: 11:00~18:00 #食パン専店 FUJISAN SHOKUPAN #MarchGoodPlaces2025

How to get there - Wait for the train to Kawaguchiko.

Mount Iwadono, located in Otsuki City, Yamanashi Prefecture, is a hiking spot that is easy even for beginners to climb. From the summit, which is 634 meters above sea level, you can enjoy a spectacular view of Mt. Fuji and Otsuki city, and it is especially recommended on days with good weather. The hiking trail is well maintained, so you can enjoy it safely while immersing yourself in nature. The chain sections and observation points along the way are a bit thrilling, but also give you a sense of accomplishment. This is a great hiking spot that you can easily enjoy on a day trip, so be sure to visit! #0yentravelNovember

We took the Mt. Fuji View Express from Otsuki Station to Kawaguchiko Station! The deep red body was very cool, and the carriage itself was full of a special feeling. While the train was stopped at the station, there was a cute train with Mt. Fuji characters painted on it on the opposite platform. The sight of the red express train and the cute train lined up next to each other is a sight that will make you want to take a photo. The interior of the train is also stylishly designed, and you can enjoy the view of Mt. Fuji from the window while traveling. This express train is not only enjoyable for train enthusiasts, but also as part of a Mt. Fuji tour! #0yentravelNovember

#familytrips2024 Embarking from Otsuki, we boarded the Thomas & Friends themed train, a whimsical journey awaited. Adorned with cheerful colours and familiar faces, the carriage echoed with excitement. As the train chugged along, passing through scenic landscapes, children's laughter filled the air. Parents and kids alike marvelled at the themed decorations adorning the interiors, evoking fond memories of the beloved characters. With each passing mile, anticipation grew for our destination: Fujikyu Highland station. The train ride became a magical adventure, fostering a sense of wonder and joy among passengers. Arriving at our stop, we disembarked with smiles, carrying cherished memories of our enchanting journey aboard the Thomas & Friends train.

#Japan and Korea Springtime Destinations In addition to taking the comfortable direct train "Fuji Express" from Tokyo to Kawaguchiko, you can also take the "Chuo Line" to Otsuki Station in Yamanashi Prefecture and then transfer to the "Fuji Kyuko Line", which has more trains and more flexible schedules. The Fujikyu Line is a 26.6km railway connecting Otsuki Station to Kawaguchiko Station. There are several cute trains of Fujikyu Corporation running on this line, such as the "Fujisan View Express", "Fujisan Express", etc., and the ordinary trains also have famous anime liveries from time to time. 📒Tips: From Shimoyoshida Station to Gekkeiji Station, you can see the train heading towards the mountain from the front driver's seat, as the railway is facing Mount Fuji.

#freehotelstay #fujisan #yamanashicity

The hotel is near Otsuki Station. It is a newly opened Toyoko Inn hotel. It is very new. The facilities are good. The room is larger than the general Toyoko Inn.

I booked a room for 4 people, but when I got to the hotel I found out it was a double room with a shared living room. I was so happy. The cleanliness and luggage storage area were very convenient. The breakfast was also delicious. I will definitely stay here again.

Access: Bus or walk from Otsuki Station on the Chuo Line Tourist attractions: The spectacular view of Mt. Fuji and the cliff-side Jigootoshi during mountain hikes Meals: A retro local Chinese restaurant, Horaiken, 3 minutes walk from Otsuki Station Shopping: Kikyoya, a Shingen Mochi shop, in front of Otsuki Station Enjoy adult athletics with some rocky areas and chain sections! The path is well maintained so there's no chance of getting lost. The power of Mt. Fuji from the top can't be conveyed in a photo... Give it a try. #Spectacular views #Mountain climbing #Yamanashi #Mt. Fuji